Ontario Proposes New Legislation for Municipal Governance
The Ontario government has introduced the Municipal Accountability Act, 2024, aimed at enhancing municipal governance and accountability. If passed, the legislation will establish a standardized municipal code of conduct and a consistent integrity commissioner inquiry process across the province. Mandatory code of conduct training for council members and certain local boards is also proposed.
Paul Calandra, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, stated that the process was developed in consultation with Ontario’s Integrity Commissioner to ensure a standardized approach to municipal accountability. The legislation includes provisions for the removal and disqualification of council members who seriously violate the proposed code, contingent on recommendations from the municipal integrity commissioner and a unanimous council vote, excluding the member in question.
Additionally, the Peel Transition Implementation Act, 2024, was introduced to facilitate the transfer of key public works services from the Region of Peel to the municipalities of Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon. This transition aims to provide these municipalities with greater autonomy to manage their growing communities. The proposed changes include transferring responsibilities for regional roads and stormwater infrastructure, as well as waste collection services in Mississauga.
The Provincial Land and Development Facilitator will assist in the transition process, with costs covered by the province. The Peel Region Transition Board, which has been involved in stakeholder engagement since 2023, will be dissolved by the end of 2024.
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